The American Craft Council (ACC) is a national, nonprofit Public educational organization founded in 1943 by Aileen Osborn Webb. The Council's mission is to promote understanding and appreciation for contemporary American craft. The ACC is now accepting AltCraft applications for the show in Baltimore, which will take place on February 27–March 1, 2009. The deadline for applying is Thursday, October 23.

The AltCraft section showcases the innovative techniques and materials of the handmade movement. Artists will display items like lampshades made out of cocktail umbrellas, and colorful clothing made out of vintage and reclaimed fabrics. One of the jewelry exhibitors in the AltCraft section will be Margaux Lange. She makes jewelry out of sterling silver and Barbie doll parts. Margaux says that her childhood spent with Barbie cultivated her interest in adornment.

I adore Margeux's work, particularly these Barbie-ear earrings. It's a clever way to wear Barbie's ears on your ears. So instead of accessorizing Barbie, she becomes the accessory.

Mass produced Barbie is transformed into an origianl, wearable piece of art. You can see more of Margaux's work at Margaux's Web site, margauxlange.com, or read her Blog at midgesmind.blogspot.com, or visit her Etsy shop at etsy.com.